Australian-based documentary and factual prodco Bearcage and China's CCTV9 Channel have entered into a copro agreement for The Story of Australia. (Pictured: producer Michael Tear)

Australian-based documentary and factual prodco Bearcage and China’s CCTV9 Channel have entered into a coproduction agreement for The Story of Australia.

The six-part documentary series was developed to mark the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and Australia, and will broadcast in China and internationally.

Bearcage’s most recent productions include the five-part series New Zealand From Above, a copro with New Zealand’s Making Movies, Germany’s GebruderBeetz, Germany’s ARTE/ZDF, National Geographic Australia and New Zealand’s Prime; and The Digger for the History Channel Australia.

The Story of Australia will tour the country to feature the arts and culture, industry and innovation, Indigenous culture and heritage, and more. It is told by locals working in their respective fields, such as the wildlife ranger in Kakadu or the miner in Far North Queensland.

A ceremony in Beijing will mark the launch of the coproduction agreement between CCTV and Bearcage for The Story of Australia.

“I believe Chinese audiences will very much enjoy seeing the wonders of our vast and unique country, both natural and societal,” said Dr Ruth Harley, chief executive of Screen Australia. “Screen Australia is committed to building on our excellent relationship with Chinese government, broadcasters and screen industry counterparts, and I know that our connection will continue to facilitate future coproductions.”

Michael Tear (pictured above) is the producer of The Story of Australia, while Serge Ou and Chris Bamford serve as directors.

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Daniele Alcinii is a news editor at realscreen, the leading international publisher of non-fiction film and television industry news and content. He joined the RS team in 2015 with experience in journalism following a stint out west with Sun Media in Edmonton's Capital Region, and with communications work in Melbourne, Australia and Toronto. You can follow him on Twitter at @danielealcinii.